Wike vs Fubara: Rivers Governor Orders Council Chiefs to Join APP

Rivers Politics Heats Up: Fubara Instructs Council Chiefs to Run Under APP

The local elections, slated for October 5, are taking place amidst escalating tensions between Fubara and Wike...

Fubara directs local government heads to run under APP, shifting political dynamics.

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has directed all 23 local government chairmen to contest the upcoming local government elections under the All People's Party (APP) banner. This move comes after Fubara lost control of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) structure in Rivers State to Nyesom Wike, the former governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory [1).

The local elections, slated for October 5, are taking place amidst escalating tensions between Fubara and Wike, with the latter continuing to wield significant influence over the PDP in the state. Fubara's decision to back the APP is seen as a strategic maneuver to counter Wike's dominance.

To put this into context, Siminalayi Fubara, a former Accountant General of Rivers State, assumed office as governor on May 29, 2023. His relationship with Nyesom Wike, who previously held the governorship position, has been complex. Wike's control over the PDP structure in Rivers State has led to a political shift, prompting Fubara to seek alternative avenues.

Fubara's endorsement of the APP is a calculated move to challenge Wike's control and potentially reshape the political landscape in Rivers State. The outcome of the local elections will likely have significant implications for the state's political dynamics.

The political tide in Rivers is shifting as the APP gains momentum, bolstered by the governor's endorsement and the support of current local government chairmen. This development is poised to reshape the state's political landscape, potentially catapulting the once-smaller party into a major force.